The Dutch Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Deutsche Bahn on 1 April 2026 for the provision of two Military Escort Wagons (MBW). These units serve as mobile accommodation for personnel responsible for cargo security and inspection during transport. The wagons are configured with seating areas and basic facilities similar to those found in dining cars to support the train detachment during transit.
The agreement stipulates a 10-day notice period for deployment. Upon notification, the wagons are delivered to the specific location required for military transport. While the units are compatible with various locomotive types and cleared for operation across the European rail network, the contract covers the rolling stock only and requires separate traction arrangements for each mission.
These wagons facilitate the movement of heavy military assets across European corridors by providing integrated space for guards. This arrangement allows the Dutch military to access specialized rolling stock without maintaining a permanent internal fleet. The MBW units are designed to operate within standard freight and passenger consists across the standard-gauge network.
